Who's Next Paris Unveils Groundbreaking Lab Redefining Fashion Innovation
The highly anticipated 2025 edition of Who's Next is set to commence this Saturday, running until September 8, at the iconic Porte de Versailles in Paris. Recognized as an indispensable gathering for fashion professionals worldwide, this premier event consistently brings together a diverse community of designers, buyers, and key industry stakeholders from both France and international markets, fostering collaboration and innovation within the global fashion landscape.
A significant highlight of this year's edition is the grand unveiling of Who's Next Lab, an entirely new and immersive space poised to redefine how innovation is perceived and experienced in fashion. Heralded as the very place where "innovation takes shape," this dedicated area has been meticulously crafted to illuminate and champion the myriad emerging forms of fashion creation, offering a forward-thinking perspective on the industry's future direction.
Conceived as a dynamic hub for meaningful encounters and hands-on experimentation, the Who's Next Lab strategically positions itself at the nexus of several critical industry trends. It serves as a vibrant crossroad where cutting-edge digital craftsmanship, sustainable technology, and groundbreaking design principles converge. This holistic approach ensures a comprehensive exploration of the tools, materials, and methodologies that are actively shaping the next generation of fashion.
The program within the Who's Next Lab promises an exceptionally rich and diverse array of activities. Attendees can look forward to captivating live demonstrations, the presentation of pioneering bio-inspired materials, and showcases of advanced 3D textile printing. The space will also feature augmented accessories and a dedicated digital zone, offering an insightful look into the creative tools of tomorrow, spanning from the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the intricate processes of virtual modeling.
Interactive animations are at the heart of the Who's Next Lab experience, ensuring visitors are not just observers but active participants. Guests will have the unique opportunity to witness live printing on various substrates, including ceramics, silicone, and textiles. The Lab also features an extensive bio-inspired material library, thoughtfully curated by Reflexlab, inviting exploration and discovery. Furthermore, participative workshops, led by CDamslab, will delve into the realm of 360° creation, guiding attendees through processes from initial drawing concepts to advanced virtual gradation techniques.
A curated selection of visionary exhibitors will showcase their pioneering work within the Lab. Incxnnue, for instance, presents an intriguing fusion of accessories and technology, featuring innovative silicone bags, sculptural lighting installations, and intricate textile prints. CDamslab, founded by Charlène Dams, demonstrates its expertise in combining artificial intelligence, 3D modeling, and rapid prototyping to develop truly inclusive fashion. Miraggia stands out as France's first generative AI platform specifically tailored for fashion, revolutionizing the creation of visuals and virtual mannequins. Blanca Martin Hernandez, an alumna of LISAA Mode Paris, explores the profound integration of 3D printing into clothing design through a series of compelling prototypes and experimental collections. Meanwhile, Reflexlab and Mikera collaboratively blend traditional craft with digital fabrication, offering both their comprehensive bio-inspired material library and live demonstrations of ceramic object printing.
Through the introduction of this groundbreaking new space, Who's Next delivers an embodied and concrete vision of innovation that is both tangible and forward-looking. The Lab emerges as an essential destination for exchange and discovery, empowering professionals and visitors alike to deeply explore the cutting-edge tools, materials, and transformative practices that are collectively inspiring and forging entirely new and exciting pathways for fashion creation.
